How To Use CPT Code 27430

CPT 27430 describes a surgical procedure performed on the quadriceps femoris muscle to release adhesions and improve mobility. This article will cover the description, procedure, qualifying circumstances, appropriate usage, documentation requirements, billing guidelines, historical information and billing examples.

1. What is CPT Code 27430?

CPT 27430 is used to describe a surgical procedure that aims to improve the range of bending motion at the knee joint by releasing adhesions and improving mobility in the quadriceps femoris muscle. The quadriceps femoris muscle is a large muscle group located on the front of the thigh and consists of four muscles: rectus femoris, vastus lateralis, vastus medialis, and vastus intermedius.

2. Official Description

The official description of CPT code 27430 is a surgical procedure that involves the release of adhesions and improvement of mobility in the quadriceps femoris muscle to enhance the range of bending motion at the knee joint.

3. Procedure

1. The provider begins by making a vertical midline incision in the mid thigh, extending to the level of the knee joint.
2. After dissecting through the subcutaneous tissue layer, the provider retracts the tissue flaps.
3. The provider then identifies the rectus femoris by dissecting through the junction of the vastus lateralis and vastus medialis.
4. The tight, scarred rectus femoris is incised to divide and lengthen it.
5. The provider checks for any fibrotic binding of the vastus intermedius to the deep surface of the rectus femoris and removes such bindings.
6. The incision is expanded to the sides of the patella, or knee cap, and the adhesions attaching the undersurface of the patella to the femur are broken.
7. The provider manipulates the joint to ensure a full range of bending motion is possible.
8. Hemostasis, or stoppage of bleeding, is achieved at the surgical site.
9. The wound is closed by suturing the soft tissue in layers.

4. Qualifying circumstances

CPT 27430 is performed on patients with adhesions or scarring in the quadriceps femoris muscle that restricts the range of bending motion at the knee joint. The procedure is aimed at improving mobility and is typically performed when other conservative treatments have failed to provide relief. It is important to note that the procedure may result in a loss of active knee extension, depending on the specific technique used.

5. When to use CPT code 27430

CPT code 27430 should be used when a surgical procedure is performed to release adhesions and improve mobility in the quadriceps femoris muscle to enhance the range of bending motion at the knee joint. It is important to ensure that other conservative treatments have been attempted before resorting to this surgical intervention.

6. Documentation requirements

To support a claim for CPT 27430, the provider must document the following information:

• Patient’s diagnosis and the presence of adhesions or scarring in the quadriceps femoris muscle
• Description of the surgical procedure performed, including the specific techniques used
• Date of the procedure
• Details of the incision, dissection, and manipulation of the joint
• Any complications or unexpected findings during the procedure
• Details of the wound closure and any post-operative instructions
• Signature of the provider performing the procedure

7. Billing guidelines

When billing for CPT 27430, ensure that the procedure is performed to release adhesions and improve mobility in the quadriceps femoris muscle. It is important to follow the specific documentation requirements and guidelines provided by the payer. Additionally, consider any applicable modifiers or additional codes that may be necessary to accurately report the procedure.

8. Historical information

CPT 27430 was added to the Current Procedural Terminology system on January 1, 1990. There have been no updates or changes to the code since its addition.

9. Examples

1. A patient with extensive scarring in the quadriceps femoris muscle undergoes CPT 27430 to release adhesions and improve mobility, allowing for a greater range of bending motion at the knee joint.
2. A professional athlete experiences restricted knee movement due to adhesions in the quadriceps femoris muscle and undergoes CPT 27430 to improve mobility and enhance performance.
3. A patient with a history of knee surgery develops adhesions in the quadriceps femoris muscle, leading to limited range of motion. CPT 27430 is performed to release the adhesions and restore normal knee function.
4. A patient with a previous knee injury experiences chronic pain and restricted movement due to adhesions in the quadriceps femoris muscle. CPT 27430 is performed to alleviate pain and improve mobility.
5. A patient with a congenital condition affecting the quadriceps femoris muscle undergoes CPT 27430 to release adhesions and improve mobility, allowing for better functional abilities.
6. A patient with a history of trauma to the knee develops adhesions in the quadriceps femoris muscle, resulting in limited range of motion. CPT 27430 is performed to release the adhesions and restore normal knee function.
7. A patient with a chronic inflammatory condition experiences restricted knee movement due to adhesions in the quadriceps femoris muscle. CPT 27430 is performed to improve mobility and alleviate symptoms.